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This Spells Disaster
Fake dating gets a magical twist in this enchanting queer romantic comedy where a witch worries that the real feelings brewing between her and her crush were sparked by an accidental love potion, and the only way out of the disastrous spell is a healthy dose of the truth—drink up, witches.
Potion maker and self-proclaimed “messy witch” Morgan Greenwood is sure she was hexed at birth. Not only did she drunkenly offer to fake date the woman of her dreams during the biennial New England Witches’ festival, but Rory Sandler, spellcasting champion and brilliant elemental witch—for reasons known only to the Goddess—accepted. It’s like every good luck spell Morgan ever cast came through at once, and it doesn’t take a crystal ball to predict this charade will end with a broken heart.
Or is the magic between them real? As Morgan and Rory prepare to fool everyone at the festival, their relationship starts to feel a whole lot less fake—right until Morgan realizes she might have screwed up the common relaxation potion she made for Rory and given her a love potion instead, breaking one of the most sacred Witch Council Laws.
To fulfill her promise to Rory, Morgan must somehow keep playing pretend while under the watchful eyes of Rory’s family and legion of fans. But to break the love potion, she’ll also have to prove how incompatible she and Rory really are. For a screwup like her, ruining their relationship should be easy—except every day, Morgan is becoming more bewitched by Rory herself.
Potion maker and self-proclaimed “messy witch” Morgan Greenwood is sure she was hexed at birth. Not only did she drunkenly offer to fake date the woman of her dreams during the biennial New England Witches’ festival, but Rory Sandler, spellcasting champion and brilliant elemental witch—for reasons known only to the Goddess—accepted. It’s like every good luck spell Morgan ever cast came through at once, and it doesn’t take a crystal ball to predict this charade will end with a broken heart.
Or is the magic between them real? As Morgan and Rory prepare to fool everyone at the festival, their relationship starts to feel a whole lot less fake—right until Morgan realizes she might have screwed up the common relaxation potion she made for Rory and given her a love potion instead, breaking one of the most sacred Witch Council Laws.
To fulfill her promise to Rory, Morgan must somehow keep playing pretend while under the watchful eyes of Rory’s family and legion of fans. But to break the love potion, she’ll also have to prove how incompatible she and Rory really are. For a screwup like her, ruining their relationship should be easy—except every day, Morgan is becoming more bewitched by Rory herself.
Audible Audio
First published September 12, 2023
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About the author
Tori Anne Martin
3 books150 followersTori Anne Martin is a USA Today bestselling author of witchy romance and fantasy for teens and adults, as well as the author of a book series (or two) under not-so-secret identities. She lives in northern New England, along with her partner and their two cats, where she collects pen names, tattoos, and hoodies in shades of gray and black. If you can’t find her reading a book, it’s because she’s lost in the woods.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 462 reviews
October 3, 2023
Genuinely why did the author choose this weird ass “I need to make her hate me bc I think she took a love potion so OF COURSE none of her feelings are real even tho she’s showing them after the duration of any potion would be effective AND I won’t tell her that I think she accidentally took a potion bc this book needs to be 12hrs a long” plot???
It basically felt like Morgan was gaslighting Rory the entire time and I felt so angry at Morgan and sad for Rory. Morgan was a coward for not confessing to Rory about the potential potion, so the entire book felt unnecessarily cruel. It was just a really uncomfortable time all around. It was also so fucking repetitive. Morgan is mean to Rory. Morgan feels bad about it. Morgan longs for Rory and reminds herself it’s not real. REPEAT. Also the plot didn’t start until like 40%.
When you want to DNF at 90%, you know there’s no hope for a book. It took me several days to finish and I had to force myself to continue reading it. The writing was fine, if a bit flowery, and I’d consider reading more from the author of the plot seems fun, but I wouldn’t rush to preorder. As for the audiobook, I really enjoyed the narration as Jeremy Carlisle Parker is a fav of mine. It’s a shame that the cozy small town witchy vibe was ruined by the plot 😭
⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶️.5*/5
*I honestly have no idea what the hell happened in this department.
Thanks to PRHaudio for an ALC and to the publisher for a free finished copy. All opinions are honest and my own.
It basically felt like Morgan was gaslighting Rory the entire time and I felt so angry at Morgan and sad for Rory. Morgan was a coward for not confessing to Rory about the potential potion, so the entire book felt unnecessarily cruel. It was just a really uncomfortable time all around. It was also so fucking repetitive. Morgan is mean to Rory. Morgan feels bad about it. Morgan longs for Rory and reminds herself it’s not real. REPEAT. Also the plot didn’t start until like 40%.
When you want to DNF at 90%, you know there’s no hope for a book. It took me several days to finish and I had to force myself to continue reading it. The writing was fine, if a bit flowery, and I’d consider reading more from the author of the plot seems fun, but I wouldn’t rush to preorder. As for the audiobook, I really enjoyed the narration as Jeremy Carlisle Parker is a fav of mine. It’s a shame that the cozy small town witchy vibe was ruined by the plot 😭
⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶️.5*/5
*I honestly have no idea what the hell happened in this department.
Thanks to PRHaudio for an ALC and to the publisher for a free finished copy. All opinions are honest and my own.
September 14, 2023
There is absolutely no need for a miscommunication trope of this magnitude in a sapphic book, when we, the sapphic community, are well known for valuing communication.
This book was okay - it was an easy going cosy romance with a twist of fantasy. Morgan proposes a fake-dating scenario to her crush, Rory, in an attempt to convince her family she is happily settled in a small town. The coven attend a festival and hijinks ensue. Morgan becomes convinced she accidentally gave Rory a love potion and becomes consumed by anxiety and guilt, and instead of communicating this like a normal person, decides to attempt to 'break' the spell by being mean to Rory.
I, and I cannot stress this enough, would really dislike Morgan if she was real. The moment she decided to be purposefully mean to Rory I considered DNFing the book because it made me so irate. She's also just such a fucking mess (derogatory) - I wanted to shake some sense into her. All logic goes out the window when she just decides she must have given Rory a love potion. I might just be too straight forward and direct for this book because the mental maths she was doing was insane. She jumped to conclusions with Olympic level skill.
The miscommunication trope was way too much for me. I don't really mind it as people as a group tend to miscommunicate, but there's no way people are pulling these kind of mental gymnastics to avoid ONE conversation that would have ended the book HALF way through. ESPECIALLY sapphic people. It totally overpowered any aspect of fake dating and the fun things that come with that.
The writing was also difficult to become immersed in - there was a lot of telling not showing, a lot of bland descriptions, and a lot of awkward dialogue. A lot of this book felt heavy handed to be honest.
I did like the discussions of consent though - it's always great to see a romance book do that.
Two stars for Lilith (cat), Hazel (the only one with sense), Rory (hot)
Thank you to Penguin & Netgalley for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
content warnings: emotional abuse, anxiety
I should also mention there is zero spice (until the last chapter but it's not much) - I don't need spice in my books but I do prefer my romance books to have it. Don't go into this book expecting spice, or alternatively, if you prefer a spice free adult romance then this is for you.
This book was okay - it was an easy going cosy romance with a twist of fantasy. Morgan proposes a fake-dating scenario to her crush, Rory, in an attempt to convince her family she is happily settled in a small town. The coven attend a festival and hijinks ensue. Morgan becomes convinced she accidentally gave Rory a love potion and becomes consumed by anxiety and guilt, and instead of communicating this like a normal person, decides to attempt to 'break' the spell by being mean to Rory.
I, and I cannot stress this enough, would really dislike Morgan if she was real. The moment she decided to be purposefully mean to Rory I considered DNFing the book because it made me so irate. She's also just such a fucking mess (derogatory) - I wanted to shake some sense into her. All logic goes out the window when she just decides she must have given Rory a love potion. I might just be too straight forward and direct for this book because the mental maths she was doing was insane. She jumped to conclusions with Olympic level skill.
The miscommunication trope was way too much for me. I don't really mind it as people as a group tend to miscommunicate, but there's no way people are pulling these kind of mental gymnastics to avoid ONE conversation that would have ended the book HALF way through. ESPECIALLY sapphic people. It totally overpowered any aspect of fake dating and the fun things that come with that.
The writing was also difficult to become immersed in - there was a lot of telling not showing, a lot of bland descriptions, and a lot of awkward dialogue. A lot of this book felt heavy handed to be honest.
I did like the discussions of consent though - it's always great to see a romance book do that.
Two stars for Lilith (cat), Hazel (the only one with sense), Rory (hot)
Thank you to Penguin & Netgalley for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
content warnings: emotional abuse, anxiety
I should also mention there is zero spice (until the last chapter but it's not much) - I don't need spice in my books but I do prefer my romance books to have it. Don't go into this book expecting spice, or alternatively, if you prefer a spice free adult romance then this is for you.
September 12, 2023
Happy release day!
Thanks to Berkley via Netgalley for - gasp - granting me an advanced copy to read! This Spells Disaster will be out September 12th.
I didn't love this. It was not remarkably bad, but rather unremarkable among contemporary witchy romances, sapphic romances, and fake dating trope stories. After drunkenly making the suggestion, potion brewer Morgan fake-dates Rory to get Rory's parents off her back; they're a pretentious, prestigious political family, her mother being on the Witch Council.
Both a slow start and writing that was difficult to immerse myself in did this story a disservice. And also the miscommunication trope; felt like someone poured a bit too much of that into the brew here. Morgan is simultaneously full of self-doubt and anxiety, yet thinks she managed to make a historical whopper of a love potion. It was unfortunate she was our narrator the entire time, as she was maximum messy.
I enjoyed the worldbuilding though, very Practical Magic urban fantasy vibes. Morgan's a potion-maker and often messing with herbs and things to help the family business - called Bed, Bath, and Broom, haha.
I had some extraneous good notes, too - a very cute cover, and the author's abundant explanation & TW about consent in line with the potential of love spells was a good inclusion.
Thanks to Berkley via Netgalley for - gasp - granting me an advanced copy to read! This Spells Disaster will be out September 12th.
I didn't love this. It was not remarkably bad, but rather unremarkable among contemporary witchy romances, sapphic romances, and fake dating trope stories. After drunkenly making the suggestion, potion brewer Morgan fake-dates Rory to get Rory's parents off her back; they're a pretentious, prestigious political family, her mother being on the Witch Council.
Both a slow start and writing that was difficult to immerse myself in did this story a disservice. And also the miscommunication trope; felt like someone poured a bit too much of that into the brew here. Morgan is simultaneously full of self-doubt and anxiety, yet thinks she managed to make a historical whopper of a love potion. It was unfortunate she was our narrator the entire time, as she was maximum messy.
I enjoyed the worldbuilding though, very Practical Magic urban fantasy vibes. Morgan's a potion-maker and often messing with herbs and things to help the family business - called Bed, Bath, and Broom, haha.
I had some extraneous good notes, too - a very cute cover, and the author's abundant explanation & TW about consent in line with the potential of love spells was a good inclusion.
October 19, 2023
I'm split with this one. It has some cute moments but I had issues with how the author handled things.
Morgan thinks she has accidentally given Rory a love potion instead of a relaxation potion. Instead of just telling her about it, she decides to prove how incompatible they are. Not only that, but she acts like an asshole and does all these things she knows Rory doesn't like. She just came across as really childish. I honestly couldn't see why Rory would stick around, even after Morgan tells the truth.
Morgan thinks she has accidentally given Rory a love potion instead of a relaxation potion. Instead of just telling her about it, she decides to prove how incompatible they are. Not only that, but she acts like an asshole and does all these things she knows Rory doesn't like. She just came across as really childish. I honestly couldn't see why Rory would stick around, even after Morgan tells the truth.
September 12, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
5 stars
The world building here is excellent. The author has put a great deal of thought into the whys and why nots of magic. Yes, scrying works … but so does google; and often faster. We learn about the relationships between non-magical people and witches, and how this affects romances and children. Also, the status of men in the community, as male witches are a minority in an already small group of women, is kind of hilarious. They’re both seen as prizes for their rarity, and given praise for the smallest things … as well as not expected to be all that great because they’re just men. The purpose of covens, the way society shapes itself around magic and witches, and even how and why Rory’s magic is as powerful as it is… there’s just so much attention to detail and I loved every bit of it.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
5 stars
The world building here is excellent. The author has put a great deal of thought into the whys and why nots of magic. Yes, scrying works … but so does google; and often faster. We learn about the relationships between non-magical people and witches, and how this affects romances and children. Also, the status of men in the community, as male witches are a minority in an already small group of women, is kind of hilarious. They’re both seen as prizes for their rarity, and given praise for the smallest things … as well as not expected to be all that great because they’re just men. The purpose of covens, the way society shapes itself around magic and witches, and even how and why Rory’s magic is as powerful as it is… there’s just so much attention to detail and I loved every bit of it.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
March 28, 2023
I am another Berkley author who was given an ARC, but that does not affect my review! I genuinely loved this book.
This Spells Disaster is the witchy romance of my dreams. Potion witch Morgan Greenwood is an adorable heroine: impulsive, chaotic, and loyal to her loved ones. Elemental witch Rory Fucking Sandler is her perfect match in every way: clever, ambitious, and kind. Hilarious and angsty in turns, this book has rich worldbuilding, lovable characters, and a nuanced approach to issues of consent, trauma, and the burden of expectations. This queer, magically sweet and sexy romance is an absolute joy.
This Spells Disaster is the witchy romance of my dreams. Potion witch Morgan Greenwood is an adorable heroine: impulsive, chaotic, and loyal to her loved ones. Elemental witch Rory Fucking Sandler is her perfect match in every way: clever, ambitious, and kind. Hilarious and angsty in turns, this book has rich worldbuilding, lovable characters, and a nuanced approach to issues of consent, trauma, and the burden of expectations. This queer, magically sweet and sexy romance is an absolute joy.
Read
March 13, 2023Now that this book is heading out into the world, I wanted to share a piece from my Author's Note with you all (AKA, the content warning). Although it's a romcom, some serious issues are dealt with:
-Discussions of consent/the ability to consent to physical and sexual contact
-Magical drugging
-Loss of control
-Anxiety
-Self-medication
On the more fun side, there's also fake dating, practice kissing, and HEA. Obviously, I loved it, and I hope you do too!
-Discussions of consent/the ability to consent to physical and sexual contact
-Magical drugging
-Loss of control
-Anxiety
-Self-medication
On the more fun side, there's also fake dating, practice kissing, and HEA. Obviously, I loved it, and I hope you do too!
September 24, 2024
Gostei muito deste livrinho! É um romance fofo e divertido e o plot é super engraçado 🤣
September 19, 2023
A sapphic, witchy fake dating romance
Morgan Greenwood is a potion-maker, Rory Sandler is an elemental witch who left magical stardom behind to tend bar. Rory's family does not understand why she would leave the world of competitive magic. In an attempt to show them she is happy and thriving Rory & Morgan (who's had a crush on Rory since she first laid eyes on her) decide to pretend to be in a relationship. Then lines begin to blur and emotions don't feel so fake. Can it be real or is there something else at play?
Loved the witch community, especially Morgan's family & friends and the entire festival. I struggled a bit with the fact that the plot relies heavily on the miscommunication trope. A little communication would have gone a long way.
Overall, this was a fun sapphic, witchy fake dating romance. It's just not one that will stay with me over time.
Morgan Greenwood is a potion-maker, Rory Sandler is an elemental witch who left magical stardom behind to tend bar. Rory's family does not understand why she would leave the world of competitive magic. In an attempt to show them she is happy and thriving Rory & Morgan (who's had a crush on Rory since she first laid eyes on her) decide to pretend to be in a relationship. Then lines begin to blur and emotions don't feel so fake. Can it be real or is there something else at play?
Loved the witch community, especially Morgan's family & friends and the entire festival. I struggled a bit with the fact that the plot relies heavily on the miscommunication trope. A little communication would have gone a long way.
Overall, this was a fun sapphic, witchy fake dating romance. It's just not one that will stay with me over time.
August 29, 2024
TITLE: THIS SPELLS DISASTER
AUTHOR: Tori Anne Martin
PUB DATE: 09.12.2023 Pre Order Now
Fake dating gets a magical twist in this enchanting queer romantic comedy where a witch worries that the real feelings brewing between her and her crush were sparked by an accidental love potion, and the only way out of the disastrous spell is a healthy dose of the truth—drink up, witches.
THOUGHTS:
This Spells Disaster is a paranormal sapphic romance set in a magical world where potion maker and the chaotic Morgan Greenwood fake dates her crush Rory - and may have potentially drugged her with a magic love potion which is so against the Witch Council Laws. I enjoyed the story told in Morgan’s POV, the world building, and the wonderful ways both Morgan and Rory get to their happy ever after.
A really fun romantic read that I enjoyed.
AUTHOR: Tori Anne Martin
PUB DATE: 09.12.2023 Pre Order Now
Fake dating gets a magical twist in this enchanting queer romantic comedy where a witch worries that the real feelings brewing between her and her crush were sparked by an accidental love potion, and the only way out of the disastrous spell is a healthy dose of the truth—drink up, witches.
THOUGHTS:
This Spells Disaster is a paranormal sapphic romance set in a magical world where potion maker and the chaotic Morgan Greenwood fake dates her crush Rory - and may have potentially drugged her with a magic love potion which is so against the Witch Council Laws. I enjoyed the story told in Morgan’s POV, the world building, and the wonderful ways both Morgan and Rory get to their happy ever after.
A really fun romantic read that I enjoyed.
October 22, 2023
Plot made no sense, characterization was bland, this gave me nothing. Should have DNF’ed.
October 6, 2024
Content warnings: alcohol, mentions of substance abuse/self medicating, social anxiety, toxic past relationship.
Rep: Morgan (MC) is cis, white, and bisexual. Rory (LI) is cis, white, and bisexual.
If you're reading this, and you've tagged/shelved this as lesbian, please retag it as bisexual. Stop the bisexual erasure.
This one was chaotic in a fun sense. I adored the magical aspects, and Rory was a wonderful love interest.
Rep: Morgan (MC) is cis, white, and bisexual. Rory (LI) is cis, white, and bisexual.
If you're reading this, and you've tagged/shelved this as lesbian, please retag it as bisexual. Stop the bisexual erasure.
This one was chaotic in a fun sense. I adored the magical aspects, and Rory was a wonderful love interest.
September 5, 2023
Thank you so much to Berkley Romance, Netgalley, and PRH Audio for providing advanced copies of this! All thoughts and opinions are still my own.
I've absolutely loved the witchy romance trend and I was so excited to see a new sapphic rom-com to add to my list. This had some of my favorite tropes (always here for a fake dating romance) and had the coolest, witchy festival setting.
I also really loved the audio narration, the unique take on magic, and the explorations of family. This dealt with family expectations, emotional abuse/manipulation (from an ex in the past), and anxiety which I really enjoyed.
But while there was a lot to love about this story, I didn't particularly enjoy the main plot - the accidental love potion.
In theory, I loved this. It reminded me of That Time I Yeeted a Love Potion and a Werewolf and was hoping for similar vibes.
Instead, the heroine *decides* that potion she gave the Rory was a love potion and all logic and rational thinking flies out the window. Despite people pointing out that it's unlikely she *accidentally* made a complex & illegal potion, she can't be convinced otherwise.
And instead of just telling Rory, or you know - asking - she concocts a ridiculous plan to drive Rory awake wait it out.
And even though love potions wear off quickly, her accidental one MUST BE the strongest one ever. Because there's no way she didn't make a love potion.
Since that made up the majority of the conflict, I was left feeling underwhelmed and mildly peeved by Morgan. He lack of rational thinking was just frustrating.
My last issue, while mild, was that the majority of this book takes place over a long weekend at the witch festival (which was definitely my favorite aspect), and somehow the heroines both said "I love you" by the end of it. But didn't have any sort of intimate encounters until the very end (in very little detail, btw)
Making it this strange amalgamation of insta-love and slow burn....
Overall I thought this had potential and a fun setup. But missed the mark on the romantic execution. I am definitely curse to read more from this author in the future since I did enjoy her writing. This particular story just wasn't my favorite.
I've absolutely loved the witchy romance trend and I was so excited to see a new sapphic rom-com to add to my list. This had some of my favorite tropes (always here for a fake dating romance) and had the coolest, witchy festival setting.
I also really loved the audio narration, the unique take on magic, and the explorations of family. This dealt with family expectations, emotional abuse/manipulation (from an ex in the past), and anxiety which I really enjoyed.
But while there was a lot to love about this story, I didn't particularly enjoy the main plot - the accidental love potion.
In theory, I loved this. It reminded me of That Time I Yeeted a Love Potion and a Werewolf and was hoping for similar vibes.
Instead, the heroine *decides* that potion she gave the Rory was a love potion and all logic and rational thinking flies out the window. Despite people pointing out that it's unlikely she *accidentally* made a complex & illegal potion, she can't be convinced otherwise.
And instead of just telling Rory, or you know - asking - she concocts a ridiculous plan to drive Rory awake wait it out.
And even though love potions wear off quickly, her accidental one MUST BE the strongest one ever. Because there's no way she didn't make a love potion.
Since that made up the majority of the conflict, I was left feeling underwhelmed and mildly peeved by Morgan. He lack of rational thinking was just frustrating.
My last issue, while mild, was that the majority of this book takes place over a long weekend at the witch festival (which was definitely my favorite aspect), and somehow the heroines both said "I love you" by the end of it. But didn't have any sort of intimate encounters until the very end (in very little detail, btw)
Making it this strange amalgamation of insta-love and slow burn....
Overall I thought this had potential and a fun setup. But missed the mark on the romantic execution. I am definitely curse to read more from this author in the future since I did enjoy her writing. This particular story just wasn't my favorite.
October 11, 2023
I cannot tell you how much I wanted to like this queer Jewish witchy romance (actually, I can -- see the fact that it's a queer Jewish witchy romance). But it just... did not work for me. Almost immediately after Morgan and Rory start dating, Morgan thinks that she's accidentally given Rory a love potion instead of the relaxation potion she meant to make, because that's the only explanation for the fact that Rory seems like she actually likes her. So she self-sabotages literally everything they do, including by ignoring Rory and being reckless and rude, and it doesn't even seem to scare Rory away. Of course, she does the only thing she thinks she can do, which is break up with Rory, INSTEAD OF TELLING HER THAT SHE THINKS SHE GAVE HER A LOVE POTION.
October 12, 2023
The author made a point how important consent is and then ironically ignored one important part of that - freaking communication! I found this rather annoying and frustrating. Why are so many of the witchy romances so bad??? It's just sad.
August 18, 2024
Rounding up because I had mixed feelings about this whole book, so I figured passing grade was fair.
The first chapter was a bit rocky, but by page 50, the book started to hit its stride. Everything went well up until 50% of the way through. Then the whole potion mixup silliness happened... and continued for the rest of the book. I get what was trying to be done, but the execution was rough.
Personally, I would have preferred not to have the twist in the end and instead to have dual perspectives where you know everything. It would have allowed me to enjoy the messiness and growth of Morgan instead of feeling quite awkward with every interaction.
The romance was fine. It had a hard time winning me over with the whole potion kerfuffle. I also think Rory could have been rounded out as a human/witch a bit more.
The world building was great, and when the characters worked together, it was a lot of fun. The whole premise just wasn't for me. I would recommend reading the synopsis of this one before picking it up to ensure its right for you.
The first chapter was a bit rocky, but by page 50, the book started to hit its stride. Everything went well up until 50% of the way through. Then the whole potion mixup silliness happened... and continued for the rest of the book. I get what was trying to be done, but the execution was rough.
Personally, I would have preferred not to have the twist in the end and instead to have dual perspectives where you know everything. It would have allowed me to enjoy the messiness and growth of Morgan instead of feeling quite awkward with every interaction.
The romance was fine. It had a hard time winning me over with the whole potion kerfuffle. I also think Rory could have been rounded out as a human/witch a bit more.
The world building was great, and when the characters worked together, it was a lot of fun. The whole premise just wasn't for me. I would recommend reading the synopsis of this one before picking it up to ensure its right for you.
September 15, 2023
I'm always here for a witchy book and this one sounded fantastic.
I loved Morgan and Rory (but Morgan just a bit more.) Morgan is loyal and passionate and a spontaneous mess. Rory is charming, but stand-off-ish and rightfully so. Together they're a delightful combo of talent, protectiveness, and sweetness. There's a good group secondary characters in Morgan's family and friends and I could have done with more of them.
Plot wise, it was good. The festival setting was interesting and made a variety. The conflict set up is sort of a slow burn that finally detonates, but resolves quickly. And while the last chapter was satisfying, I wanted just a little more from their futuretake.
Overall, this was a fun set of character who were all so easy to root for. I would happily read more in this world.
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing the arc free of charge**
I loved Morgan and Rory (but Morgan just a bit more.) Morgan is loyal and passionate and a spontaneous mess. Rory is charming, but stand-off-ish and rightfully so. Together they're a delightful combo of talent, protectiveness, and sweetness. There's a good group secondary characters in Morgan's family and friends and I could have done with more of them.
Plot wise, it was good. The festival setting was interesting and made a variety. The conflict set up is sort of a slow burn that finally detonates, but resolves quickly. And while the last chapter was satisfying, I wanted just a little more from their futuretake.
Overall, this was a fun set of character who were all so easy to root for. I would happily read more in this world.
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing the arc free of charge**
March 16, 2024
I absolutely loved that. I giggled, I blushed, I got anxious, and loved it all. It was super witchy and fun :) I also love the authors writing style!! 10/10 would recommend
October 20, 2024
This was a fine witchy romance read, but that miscommunication and slight immaturity trope got to me 🤮
March 22, 2025
not very smutty, comfy garbage
as an adult reading this book, i wish the characters were slightly more developed and also the plot is kinda weird?????? idk ?????
but i am overwhelmed by this silly childish nostalgic joy of reading the wlw fiction that i never got to read as a closested teenager. what a glee
as an adult reading this book, i wish the characters were slightly more developed and also the plot is kinda weird?????? idk ?????
but i am overwhelmed by this silly childish nostalgic joy of reading the wlw fiction that i never got to read as a closested teenager. what a glee
August 25, 2023
I love sapphics, I love witches, I love fake dating, so I had to read this book! It actually was so soft. Both Morgan and Rory (full name is Aurora which I believe is one of the prettiest girl names ever so pls no more nicknaming it) are so cute and kind, their pair was adorable. I thought Rory would be edgy, but she’s a babe. The social anxiety representation was very good, as was the pressure Rory felt because of her family. I love it when characters start a new, quiet life in a small town to avoid their family’s expectations. Morgan’s “lack” of ambition was so real too. Sometimes we don’t want to do big things or we are not ready for it, and everything we need is peace and simplicity. I’m very grateful for these characters!
This could be a 5-star read for me but I didn’t enjoy the love potion plot. Well, more specifically, I’m talking about how Morgan managed the situation. I understand there’s inspiration in How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (I haven’t watched it), but I don’t like the lying behind it, and this is a me thing. I liked how everything unfolded in the end, but this aspect of the book took one star from my rating.
I think this will be the perfect witchy romance for the early Fall!
ARC provided by PRH International. Opinions are my own!
This could be a 5-star read for me but I didn’t enjoy the love potion plot. Well, more specifically, I’m talking about how Morgan managed the situation. I understand there’s inspiration in How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (I haven’t watched it), but I don’t like the lying behind it, and this is a me thing. I liked how everything unfolded in the end, but this aspect of the book took one star from my rating.
I think this will be the perfect witchy romance for the early Fall!
ARC provided by PRH International. Opinions are my own!
September 9, 2023
Morgan is a self-proclaimed “messy witch”. She swears she was hexed at birth. When she offers to fake date her crush, she wonders what she is doing. Rory is the spellcasting champion and a brilliant elemental witch. When the two get together, they can’t decipher if their feelings are real, or just part of the plan. Things are going to plan for them both until Morgan realizes she may have messed up and given Rory a love potion instead of a relaxation potion. Can Morgan figure out the mess she caused before things go too sideways? Or is the love of her life gone forever?
This book is a light and fun read, but it was slightly lacking in some ways for me. The miscommunication trope on this one was strong, but the fake dating trope was on point. So much of this book could have been solved by actually talking to each other. I find miscommunication is a hard trope for me because I strongly value communication and it grates on me when people just don’t talk. However, this book did a really good job with consent. I immensely appreciated the author’s note at the beginning about this topic. It helped explain the reasoning within the pages. The love story was enjoyable, and it was heartwarming how it all worked out.
This was worth the read and I am glad I read it. It is a nice light read just be prepared for the miscommunication.
If you’re looking for a magical sapphic romance then I hope you check this one out September 12th.
Thank you to the publisher Berkley Publishing, @berkleypub, and Netgalley @netgalley for this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book is a light and fun read, but it was slightly lacking in some ways for me. The miscommunication trope on this one was strong, but the fake dating trope was on point. So much of this book could have been solved by actually talking to each other. I find miscommunication is a hard trope for me because I strongly value communication and it grates on me when people just don’t talk. However, this book did a really good job with consent. I immensely appreciated the author’s note at the beginning about this topic. It helped explain the reasoning within the pages. The love story was enjoyable, and it was heartwarming how it all worked out.
This was worth the read and I am glad I read it. It is a nice light read just be prepared for the miscommunication.
If you’re looking for a magical sapphic romance then I hope you check this one out September 12th.
Thank you to the publisher Berkley Publishing, @berkleypub, and Netgalley @netgalley for this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 14, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for an honest review!
I really liked both of these characters, but I was begging by the end for Morgan to grow up and actually TALK to Rory. She spends like half of this book avoiding Rory or ignoring her and it was so frustrating! I did really like the magic system, with magic being part of our world and a fun witchy festival taking place during the story, and the writing was also strong too - I would definitely read more from this author. However, I can't get past the fact that the plot of the book doesn't actually start until about a third of the way through, and the fact that the conclusions Morgan jumps to are just insane (i.e. that she needs to be mean to Rory to get her to hate her - this is the least crazy of the conclusions she comes to all by herself). I honestly kind of wanted Rory to dump Morgan anyway by the end, because why would you put up with being treated like that?? Especially when they had literally only been "together" for 2 weeks.
I really liked both of these characters, but I was begging by the end for Morgan to grow up and actually TALK to Rory. She spends like half of this book avoiding Rory or ignoring her and it was so frustrating! I did really like the magic system, with magic being part of our world and a fun witchy festival taking place during the story, and the writing was also strong too - I would definitely read more from this author. However, I can't get past the fact that the plot of the book doesn't actually start until about a third of the way through, and the fact that the conclusions Morgan jumps to are just insane (i.e. that she needs to be mean to Rory to get her to hate her - this is the least crazy of the conclusions she comes to all by herself). I honestly kind of wanted Rory to dump Morgan anyway by the end, because why would you put up with being treated like that?? Especially when they had literally only been "together" for 2 weeks.
October 11, 2023
‘This Spells Disaster’ has the makings of a great book - magic, sapphic fake dating, potions gone wrong, and an actual festival of magic, but it still fell a little flat for me, unfortunately.
Morgan works in her parents potion shop, and has a massive crush on Rory, a spell casting champion, who has recently given all that up, and is currently bartending in Morgan’s New England home town. Rory’s family aren’t happy that she’s turned her back on competing, and, since they’re all heading to the same magical witch festival, Morgan drunkenly suggests that they could ‘date’ to prove to her parents that she’s settled into a new life, and is happier for it. Completely fake of course, no real feelings involved. However Rory does seems to be falling, and Morgan is thrilled…until she realises she might of accidentally slipped her a love potion. Whoops.
I’m not sure why I didn’t fully connect with this book. I think I felt slightly held at arms length - despite wanting to, I didn’t feel fully immersed in the story, nor was I really rooting for the two main characters. There is a LOT of miscommunication between the them - it’s quite frustrating, and not in a fun way. I liked both of the characters individually, but I just couldn’t get on board with them as a couple.
I also really wished we’d seen more of Morgan’s friends! They’re introduced at the start, one is half heartedly involved in the main story, and the other shows up briefly again by the end. I would have loved to of seen both of them more actively involved in the story, as they seemed so interesting.
The way magic is integrated into the world is quite cool, and I did love the festival setting - I Iiked how witches could let loose a little more, as they were surrounded by magic, and didn’t have to worry about unsettling anyone.
The writing is also pretty strong! Despite the plot leaving me feeling a bit empty, the writing was always enjoyable, and I would be willing to read more books by this author (and even ones set in this same world - I really do want more time with Hazel and Andy, Morgan’s friends!)
Overall, it is a pretty decent read if you’re looking for some magical sapphic fantasy rep but, sadly, I’m not raving about it. I can definitely see others loving it though!
Thank you to the publishers, and Netgalley, for the copy to review.
Morgan works in her parents potion shop, and has a massive crush on Rory, a spell casting champion, who has recently given all that up, and is currently bartending in Morgan’s New England home town. Rory’s family aren’t happy that she’s turned her back on competing, and, since they’re all heading to the same magical witch festival, Morgan drunkenly suggests that they could ‘date’ to prove to her parents that she’s settled into a new life, and is happier for it. Completely fake of course, no real feelings involved. However Rory does seems to be falling, and Morgan is thrilled…until she realises she might of accidentally slipped her a love potion. Whoops.
I’m not sure why I didn’t fully connect with this book. I think I felt slightly held at arms length - despite wanting to, I didn’t feel fully immersed in the story, nor was I really rooting for the two main characters. There is a LOT of miscommunication between the them - it’s quite frustrating, and not in a fun way. I liked both of the characters individually, but I just couldn’t get on board with them as a couple.
I also really wished we’d seen more of Morgan’s friends! They’re introduced at the start, one is half heartedly involved in the main story, and the other shows up briefly again by the end. I would have loved to of seen both of them more actively involved in the story, as they seemed so interesting.
The way magic is integrated into the world is quite cool, and I did love the festival setting - I Iiked how witches could let loose a little more, as they were surrounded by magic, and didn’t have to worry about unsettling anyone.
The writing is also pretty strong! Despite the plot leaving me feeling a bit empty, the writing was always enjoyable, and I would be willing to read more books by this author (and even ones set in this same world - I really do want more time with Hazel and Andy, Morgan’s friends!)
Overall, it is a pretty decent read if you’re looking for some magical sapphic fantasy rep but, sadly, I’m not raving about it. I can definitely see others loving it though!
Thank you to the publishers, and Netgalley, for the copy to review.
October 30, 2023
A sapphic witchy romance perfect for spooky season! I had a lot of fun with this one, but I would recommend steering clear if you’re not a fan of the miscommunication trope.
The love potion plot is what originally drew me to this book, but while I enjoyed parts of it, I think it could have been handled a little bit differently. I was expecting something more along the lines of That Time I Got Drunk and Yeeted a Love Potion at a Werewolf, but this book ended up going in a different direction. I was also originally surprised with just how long it took for the love potion to be introduced considering it’s advertised in the blurb.
I did really enjoy both Morgan and Rory and they had some really cute moments. I loved Morgan’s more intuitive and “messy” personality combined with Rory’s organized and slightly shy one. I found both of their characters very relatable and I enjoyed their individual growth as well as their romance.
The use of magic throughout was really fun and I enjoyed how it was incorporated into the world as well as how big of a role it played in the overall pot. The magic system was explained pretty well and I enjoyed the slightly different interpretation.
*Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The love potion plot is what originally drew me to this book, but while I enjoyed parts of it, I think it could have been handled a little bit differently. I was expecting something more along the lines of That Time I Got Drunk and Yeeted a Love Potion at a Werewolf, but this book ended up going in a different direction. I was also originally surprised with just how long it took for the love potion to be introduced considering it’s advertised in the blurb.
I did really enjoy both Morgan and Rory and they had some really cute moments. I loved Morgan’s more intuitive and “messy” personality combined with Rory’s organized and slightly shy one. I found both of their characters very relatable and I enjoyed their individual growth as well as their romance.
The use of magic throughout was really fun and I enjoyed how it was incorporated into the world as well as how big of a role it played in the overall pot. The magic system was explained pretty well and I enjoyed the slightly different interpretation.
*Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 6, 2024
Thank you to PRH Audio for the copy, all thoughts are my own.
Oh man. This was about as miscommunicationish as the miscommunication trope can be. I knew what the big twist was going to be the whole time, so it was kind of painful to watch the main character jump hurdles and devise plans that failed every time. I loved the witch vibe, and the different specialties and the festival that happened in this fictional world.
❤️ Tropes ❤️
💋 Fake Dating
💋 LGBTQ+ reps
💋 miscommunication
💋 one bed
Morgan has a crush. Wait. Not just a crush but a CRUSH on Rory. She may be behind the bar now, but she was the last world champion of magical competition. She may be drunk, so when Rory is complaining about her family bringing a guy with them to the festival for Rory, Morgan volunteers to be her fake girlfriend to help prove to them how happy she is in their little town and not competing anymore. She will take Rory any way she can get her. Besides, spending all that time together could definitely lead to more.
Oh man. This was about as miscommunicationish as the miscommunication trope can be. I knew what the big twist was going to be the whole time, so it was kind of painful to watch the main character jump hurdles and devise plans that failed every time. I loved the witch vibe, and the different specialties and the festival that happened in this fictional world.
❤️ Tropes ❤️
💋 Fake Dating
💋 LGBTQ+ reps
💋 miscommunication
💋 one bed
Morgan has a crush. Wait. Not just a crush but a CRUSH on Rory. She may be behind the bar now, but she was the last world champion of magical competition. She may be drunk, so when Rory is complaining about her family bringing a guy with them to the festival for Rory, Morgan volunteers to be her fake girlfriend to help prove to them how happy she is in their little town and not competing anymore. She will take Rory any way she can get her. Besides, spending all that time together could definitely lead to more.
September 9, 2023
This was a fun fake dating, opposites attract Sapphic paranormal romance debut that sees two witches falling in love over the course of a Spellcasting festival as fake feelings turn real with a bit of help from a rogue love potion. Unique, witty and full of heart. This was good on audio and perfect for fans of Lana Harper or Rachel Harrison. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy and @prhaudio for a complimentary ALC in exchange for my honest review. Top marks for a gorgeous purple witchy cover too!!
September 11, 2023
This is a fun sapphic, fake dating, witchy story. Morgan is a potion making witch who’s had a crush on Rory for a while. Rory works as a bartender, but she’s also a powerful elemental witch who has competed in, and won, contests. Her parents are annoyed with her bed she’s no longer competing.
The Harvest Festival is coming up and Morgan suggests that she and Rory fake date to distract her parents. Unfortunately, Morgan is convinced she accidentally gave Rory a love potion, so when the fake starts to be real doesn’t believe it.
I liked the characters and the world building but the miscommunication trope didn’t work for me. Morgan spends so much time worrying about the potion and she never asks Rory if she took it. Some of the character’s actions were a little immature. 3.5 stars.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed as in this review are completely my own.
The Harvest Festival is coming up and Morgan suggests that she and Rory fake date to distract her parents. Unfortunately, Morgan is convinced she accidentally gave Rory a love potion, so when the fake starts to be real doesn’t believe it.
I liked the characters and the world building but the miscommunication trope didn’t work for me. Morgan spends so much time worrying about the potion and she never asks Rory if she took it. Some of the character’s actions were a little immature. 3.5 stars.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed as in this review are completely my own.
September 18, 2023
Tori Anne Martin’s debut novel This Spells Disaster is a queer witchy romcom that takes place over the course of a spellcasting festival. Not only does it feature fantastic worldbuilding and lovable characters who are easy to root for, but it also features one of my favorite romance tropes, fake dating.
The story follows Morgan Greenwood, a potion witch who considered herself to be a hot mess. Morgan has had a crush on Rory Sanders, a badass elemental witch, but is too intimidated by Rory to even approach her. Instead, Morgan has admired her from afar for ages, that is, until fate puts Rory in her path one night at a bar. Rory is complaining about the unreasonable expectations her family always puts on her and that she is dreading spending time with them at the biennial New England Witches’ festival. A drunken Morgan volunteers to fake date Rory and act as a buffer between her and her family. Morgan can’t believe she did that, but even more unbelievable to her is that Rory decides to take her up on her offer.
I adored both Morgan and Rory. Morgan is just the most adorable protagonist. She’s incredibly loyal to those she cares about. Her heart is always in the right place, but she can definitely be a bit chaotic and impulsive at times. Rory is equally fabulous but in a much more reserved way than Morgan. She can be standoffish at first, but once you get to know her, Rory is a sweetheart. She’s also a brilliant spellcaster and both she and Morgan have a competitive streak that makes for some of the most entertaining banter. I just loved watching the two of them get to know each other.
My favorite part of the fake dating trope is when those fake feelings start to become real, and in This Spells Disaster, the author has added a unique complication to this trope. Morgan crafts a relaxation spell for Rory and after Rory starts taking it, she starts behaving as if she has romantic feelings toward Morgan. Morgan can’t believe that Rory could ever feel that way about her and is soon horrified to realize that her feelings for Rory may have slipped into the potion, accidentally turning it into a love potion. Love potions are illegal in the witching community because they take away a person’s right to give or refuse consent. I felt so bad for Morgan since it’s clear she didn’t intend for this to happen, but at the same time, it made the story all the more compelling for me, waiting to see how this would all play out, especially once Rory realizes the truth. I was rooting for them to work things out so hard because fake relationship or not, they were perfect for each other.
I don’t want to give anything else away, so I’ll just say this is a delightfully witchy romance. If you’re a fan of witchy romcoms, adorable characters, and fake dating, This Spells Disaster needs to go on your fall TBR.
Note: I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
The story follows Morgan Greenwood, a potion witch who considered herself to be a hot mess. Morgan has had a crush on Rory Sanders, a badass elemental witch, but is too intimidated by Rory to even approach her. Instead, Morgan has admired her from afar for ages, that is, until fate puts Rory in her path one night at a bar. Rory is complaining about the unreasonable expectations her family always puts on her and that she is dreading spending time with them at the biennial New England Witches’ festival. A drunken Morgan volunteers to fake date Rory and act as a buffer between her and her family. Morgan can’t believe she did that, but even more unbelievable to her is that Rory decides to take her up on her offer.
I adored both Morgan and Rory. Morgan is just the most adorable protagonist. She’s incredibly loyal to those she cares about. Her heart is always in the right place, but she can definitely be a bit chaotic and impulsive at times. Rory is equally fabulous but in a much more reserved way than Morgan. She can be standoffish at first, but once you get to know her, Rory is a sweetheart. She’s also a brilliant spellcaster and both she and Morgan have a competitive streak that makes for some of the most entertaining banter. I just loved watching the two of them get to know each other.
My favorite part of the fake dating trope is when those fake feelings start to become real, and in This Spells Disaster, the author has added a unique complication to this trope. Morgan crafts a relaxation spell for Rory and after Rory starts taking it, she starts behaving as if she has romantic feelings toward Morgan. Morgan can’t believe that Rory could ever feel that way about her and is soon horrified to realize that her feelings for Rory may have slipped into the potion, accidentally turning it into a love potion. Love potions are illegal in the witching community because they take away a person’s right to give or refuse consent. I felt so bad for Morgan since it’s clear she didn’t intend for this to happen, but at the same time, it made the story all the more compelling for me, waiting to see how this would all play out, especially once Rory realizes the truth. I was rooting for them to work things out so hard because fake relationship or not, they were perfect for each other.
I don’t want to give anything else away, so I’ll just say this is a delightfully witchy romance. If you’re a fan of witchy romcoms, adorable characters, and fake dating, This Spells Disaster needs to go on your fall TBR.
Note: I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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